Likud Issues Messaging Guidelines on Lebanon Deal, Government Formation, and Netanyahu Trial

Ahead of media appearances by its ministers and Knesset members, the Likud party distributed a messaging sheet outlining three main topics for focus: the agreement with Lebanon, the formation of the next government, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trial. Regarding Lebanon, the sheet claims Netanyahu achieved a historic success by creating "strategic depth" in southern Lebanon with US and Lebanese consent, aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s terror infrastructure and protecting northern Israeli residents. It emphasizes that Hezbollah was not a party to the agreement and notes a 29 billion shekel investment in northern community rehabilitation.

On the political front, Likud representatives are instructed to stress that only Netanyahu can form a broad national government based on three principles: no personal boycotts, recognition of Israel as the Jewish nation-state, and opposition to establishing a Palestinian state. The sheet also directs criticism at Gadi Eisenkot, accusing him of collaborating with the "refusal organization Brothers in Arms," opposing the assassination of Iran’s leader Ali Khamenei, and rejecting the need to attack Iran. Likud states it will not sit with left-wing figures like Eisenkot and reiterates Netanyahu’s unique ability to build a nationalist government.

The third section addresses Netanyahu’s trial, labeling it a "farce tearing the nation apart." It claims judges found no evidence of bribery and recommended dropping that charge. The sheet accuses the prosecution of misconduct, including illegal investigation openings, witness intimidation, evidence suppression, leaks, and use of Pegasus spyware. Likud concludes by calling for an end to the trial, blaming it for prolonged public and political division.